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Mercedes-Benz M260 Engine - Replacement Cost, Problems & CompatibilityProblems & Compatibility
The M260 is Mercedes-Benz’s modern 2.0-litre inline-4 turbocharged petrol engine, featuring 48V mild-hybrid (EQ Boost) technology. Fitted to the W177 A-Class, C118 CLA, H247 GLA, and X247 GLB, reconditioned M260 engines typically start from £3,500 , serving as a highly efficient and responsive unit for modern compact Mercedes repairs and restorations.
Supply & Fit Available
12-Month Warranty
Nationwide Delivery
100+ Suppliers
Used from
£1,500
Reconditioned from
£3,500
Rebuilt from
£5,000
GB
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Key Specs
Mercedes-Benz M260 - Specifications at a Glance
Engine Code
M260 (including M260.910, M260.920)
Fuel
Petrol
Configuration
2.0L inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, turbocharged, 48V mild-hybrid (EQ Boost)
Power Output(s)
120 kW (163 hp) - 140 kW (190 hp)
Years Produced
2018-Present
UK Models Fitted
4 Mercedes model families - full list in Compatibility below
Replaced
M274
Replaced By
Still in production (alongside M254 in longitudinal apps)
Most Common Failure
48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) faults and timing chain stretch
Reconditioned Price Range
£3,500-£5,500 supply-only
Vetted UK specialists for M260 replacements
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
Fitted To
Which Mercedes Models Use the M260.910/920-
The M260 represents Mercedes-Benz's shift towards electrified compact powertrains. Mounted transversely, it combines a turbocharged 2.0L block with a 48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) to deliver seamless start-stop functionality, torque fill, and improved fuel efficiency across the modern compact lineup.
| Model | Generation/Chassis | Badge(s) | Years | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Mercedes-Benz A-Class | W177 | A 200, A 220 | 2018-Present | |
| Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class | C118 | CLA 200, CLA 220 | 2019-Present | |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class | H247 | GLA 200, GLA 220 | 2020-Present | |
| Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class | X247 | GLB 200, GLB 220 | 2019-Present | |
| Mercedes-Benz B-Class | W247 | B 200, B 220 | 2019-Present |
02
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
03
Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class
04
Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
05
Mercedes-Benz B-Class
CROSS-BRAND
M260 is documented across 5 BMW applications spanning A-Class, CLA-Class, GLA-Class, GLB-Class, B-Class. Registration lookup confirms the exact suffix before quotes are sent.
Not sure which engine your car has?
Not sure which engine your car has- Enter your registration above - we'll confirm your exact M260 fitment before any quotes are sent.
Prices
Mercedes-Benz M260 Engine Replacement Cost (UK)
Condition | Supply Only | Fitted (Independent Specialist) | Typical Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
Used | £1,500-£2,500 | £2,500-£3,800 | 3-6 months |
Reconditioned | £3,500-£5,500 | £4,500-£6,800 | 12-24 months |
Rebuilt | £5,000-£7,500 | £6,200-£9,000 | 12-24 months |
What genuinely moves the price for this engine is the health of the 48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), the turbocharger, and the plastic coolant housing assemblies. Because the M260 is a highly complex modern unit, reputable recon specialists will typically test the ISG, replace all brittle plastic coolant components with updated revisions, and perform a full software calibration as standard. For a full breakdown of market rates, see our full reconditioned engine cost guide.
Labour Guide
Fitting an M260 engine typically takes 10-14 hours at £75-£95/hr (modern Mercedes specialist) - the tight packaging of the transverse engine bay and 48V components makes extraction moderately labour-intensive.
Price Factors
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Common Problems
Mercedes-Benz M260 Engine Problems - What Actually Fails
Every engine has its weak points. Here are the known issues with the M260, based on real-world data and verified failure patterns.
Verified issue focus: 48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) faults and timing chain stretch.
1. 48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) Faults
1. 48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) Faults
Typical onset:
40,000-80,000 miles (predominantly 2018-2020 models)
What happens:
The ISG, which replaces the traditional alternator and starter motor, is prone to internal electrical faults or software glitches. This triggers a "48V Electrical System Fault" warning, leading to a no-start condition, limp mode, or the engine failing to restart after an auto-stop.
Repair vs replace:
Early ISG units were subject to manufacturer recalls and software updates. If the hardware has failed, the entire ISG unit must be replaced, which is a costly but straightforward bolt-on procedure.
Read more about this issue
2. Coolant Leaks (Electric Water Pump & Thermostat Housing)
2. Coolant Leaks (Electric Water Pump & Thermostat Housing)
Typical onset:
50,000-90,000 miles
What happens:
The M260 utilizes several plastic coolant housing components and an electric auxiliary water pump. Over time, constant heat cycles cause these plastic components to warp or crack, leading to external coolant leaks or internal mixing.
Repair vs replace:
Mercedes has released updated, more durable revisions of these components. Replacing the faulty housing and pump is a standard repair, but ignoring it can lead to overheating and severe engine damage.
Read more about this issue
3. Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear
3. Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Wear
Typical onset:
60,000+ miles (early production models)
What happens:
While generally robust, some early M260 engines exhibited premature timing chain stretch or guide wear, manifesting as a faint rattling noise on cold starts or camshaft position correlation fault codes.
Repair vs replace:
If caught early, replacing the timing chain kit and updated guides is a known, albeit labour-intensive, repair. If ignored, it can lead to timing jumps and catastrophic valve-to-piston contact.
Read more about this issue
Post-2021 M260 engines feature revised ISG hardware, updated coolant component materials, and improved timing chain tensioners, making them significantly more robust and reliable than the initial launch models .
Compare rebuilt M260 engine prices with the failure already addressed
Engine Variants
M260 Sub-Codes Explained - Which One Is in Your Car-
INTRO: The M260 family shares the same fundamental 2.0L DOHC inline-4 block architecture and 48V mild-hybrid foundation, but turbocharging strategy, ECU mapping, and output vary slightly depending on the specific model application. Identifying your exact sub-code is mandatory. - Fitted to: A-Class W177 (A 200), CLA-Class C118 (CLA 200), GLA-Class H247 (GLA 200), GLB-Class X247 (GLB 200) - Key technical difference: The standard-output variant, relying on a single twin-scroll turbocharger and the 48V ISG for smooth power delivery and efficiency. Calibrated for optimal fuel economy and daily drivability. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family failure pattern above; ISG and coolant housing leaks are the primary wear items. - Interchange note: Not a straight swap with the higher-output .920 variant due to different ECU mapping, turbo calibration, and exhaust configurations. - Fitted to: A-Class W177 (A 220), CLA-Class C118 (CLA 220), GLA-Class H247 (GLA 220), GLB-Class X247 (GLB 220) - Key technical difference: The higher-output variant, featuring a revised turbocharger calibration, slightly more aggressive camshaft profile, and specific AMG-Line or higher-trim engine management to deliver stronger mid-range torque and acceleration. - Sub-code-specific failure note: Shares the family failure pattern above; the higher continuous thermal loads can slightly accelerate coolant component degradation. - Interchange note: Requires matching ECU calibration and specific wiring harness routing; not a direct drop-in for .910 chassis without modification.
The engine code is stamped on the right-hand side of the cylinder block, near the oil filter housing. It will also be listed on your V5C logbook under "Engine Capacity" or visible via a VIN decode. Not sure- Enter your registration above for instant confirmation.
Easily Confused
M274
the 1.6L/2.0L inline-4 that the M260 replaced in the compact lineup, offering a shift to 48V mild-hybrid technology and improved thermal efficiency while retaining the transverse mounting layout.
Alternative / Next-Gen Code
M254
the 2.0L inline-4 48V mild-hybrid engine that shares the same modular design philosophy and EQ Boost integration as the M260, but designed for longitudinal applications in the C-Class and GLC.
Related JLR Variants
M264
the previous generation 2.0L inline-4 with 48V mild-hybrid integration, sharing similar electrical architecture but designed for longitudinal mounting in earlier E-Class and C-Class models.
Confirm the exact M260 fitment
The engine code is stamped on the right-hand side of the cylinder block, near the oil filter housing. It will also be listed on your V5C logbook under "Engine Capacity" or visible via a VIN decode. Not sure- Enter your registration above for instant confirmation.
Buying Guide
Buying a Replacement M260 Engine - What to Choose
Choosing the right replacement route depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and ownership goals. Here's a breakdown of your options.
Used:
Buying a used M260 engine carries significant financial risk unless it comes with a full, stamped service history and documented proof that the ISG and coolant components have been inspected or replaced under warranty. Given the high cost of modern Mercedes electronics, purchasing a used unit with unknown history is highly discouraged.
Reconditioned:
A proper reconditioned M260 engine is the sweet spot for most buyers. A reputable rebuild will proactively address the common failure points by testing or replacing the 48V ISG, upgrading all plastic coolant components to the latest revised factory parts, and ensuring the timing chain assembly is within strict factory tolerances.
Rebuilt:
A full M260 engine rebuild is highly justified for high-mileage A 220 or CLA 220 models where maximum longevity and originality are required. An upgraded rebuild should include precision balancing and the installation of the absolute latest factory-revised components.
Supply & Fit Line:
Sourcing and fitting through our vetted network ensures your M260 engine is installed by specialists equipped with the latest Mercedes diagnostic software to calibrate the 48V system, backed by a nationwide warranty.
Vehicle Value Note:
Because the M260 is found in modern compact vehicles valued between £15,000 and £35,000+, a full engine replacement is a financially viable necessity to protect the asset's value. However, due to the high cost of the engine and specialized labour, always ensure the replacement cost is weighed against the vehicle's current market valuation .
Compare M260 Engine Prices Now
Related Engines
Engines Related to the Mercedes-Benz M260
Explore engines that are closely related to the Mercedes-Benz M260, including its predecessor, successor, and key family variants.
Predecessor
M274
the 1.6L/2.0L inline-4 that the M260 replaced in the compact lineup, offering a shift to 48V mild-hybrid technology and improved thermal efficiency while retaining the transverse mounting layout.
Sibling
M254
the 2.0L inline-4 48V mild-hybrid engine that shares the same modular design philosophy and EQ Boost integration as the M260, but designed for longitudinal applications in the C-Class and GLC.
Sibling
M264
the previous generation 2.0L inline-4 with 48V mild-hybrid integration, sharing similar electrical architecture but designed for longitudinal mounting in earlier E-Class and C-Class models.
FAQ
Mercedes-Benz M260Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1How much does a Mercedes M260 engine replacement cost-
A reconditioned Mercedes M260 engine typically costs between £3,500 and £5,500 for supply only . Fitted costs generally range from £4,500 to £6,800 depending on the specialist, while used units can be found from £1,500 but carry a high financial risk due to the potential for 48V ISG and coolant component failures. Compare M260 engine replacement quotes today
Compare M260 quotesQuestion 2What is the most common failure on the M260 engine-
The most documented issues are 48V Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) faults, plastic coolant housing and electric water pump leaks, and early timing chain stretch. The ISG can trigger no-start conditions or limp mode, while degraded plastic coolant components can lead to overheating if not addressed promptly. Get quotes for a rebuilt M260 with these issues resolved
Compare M260 quotesQuestion 3Which Mercedes models use the M260 engine-
The M260.910 and .920 variants are fitted to the W177 A-Class (A 200, A 220), the C118 CLA-Class (CLA 200, CLA 220), the H247 GLA-Class (GLA 200, GLA 220), the X247 GLB-Class (GLB 200, GLB 220), and the W247 B-Class (B 200, B 220), serving as the definitive modern transverse inline-4 for these chassis from 2018 onwards. Check your registration to confirm your exact M260 fitment
Compare M260 quotesQuestion 4Should I buy a used or reconditioned M260 engine-
A reconditioned M260 is strongly recommended over a used unit. A proper rebuild will proactively address the common failure points by testing or replacing the 48V ISG, upgrading all plastic coolant components to the latest revised factory parts, and verifying the timing chain assembly, whereas a used engine with unknown history risks immediate, costly electrical or cooling system repairs. Compare reconditioned M260 engine prices from UK specialists
Compare M260 quotesQuestion 5What is the difference between M260.910 and M260.920-
The M260.910 is the standard-output variant (163 hp) found in A 200, CLA 200, etc., relying on standard turbo calibration for optimal fuel economy. The M260.920 is the higher-output variant (190 hp) found in A 220, CLA 220, etc., featuring a revised turbocharger calibration and more aggressive engine management for stronger mid-range torque. They share the same core block, but the ECU mapping and turbo hardware differ significantly. Enter your reg above to identify your exact M260 sub-code ═══════════════════════════════════════
Compare M260 quotesCompare Mercedes-Benz M260 Engine Prices Today
Vetted UK specialists who work on modern Mercedes 48V mild-hybrid systems like the M260 every week Minimum 12-month warranty on every reconditioned and rebuilt M260 engine Nationwide delivery - supply-only or full supply & fit available across the UK Get a free, no-obligation comparison of M260 engine prices tailored to your exact vehicle. Our registration lookup confirms your fitment before any quotes are sent, ensuring you receive the correct unit with a verified 48V ISG, updated coolant components, and precise factory tolerances. With reconditioned M260 engines starting from an estimated £3,500, comparing takes two minutes and could save you thousands on labour and unexpected teardowns.
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Minimum 12-Month Warranty
Minimum 12-month warranty on reconditioned and rebuilt options
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